Neck & Spine and General Orthopedic Surgeries
Outpatient Fusion Surgery
Minimally invasive stabilization surgery is designed to restore spinal stability. This instability often results from issues like collapsed or degenerative discs, spondylolisthesis, or other spinal disorders. Fusion surgeries share a similar goal of stabilizing the spine by removing damaged discs and fusing the vertebrae, but they use specialized hardware and differ in the surgical approach. Another option is artificial disc replacement, which involves replacing a damaged cervical disc with a synthetic one without fusing the vertebrae. These procedures aim to restore functionality while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissue.
Degenerative Disc Disease Surgery
Minimally invasive stabilization surgery is designed to restore spinal stability. This instability often results from issues like collapsed or degenerative discs, spondylolisthesis, or other spinal disorders. Fusion surgeries share a similar goal of stabilizing the spine by removing damaged discs and fusing the vertebrae, but they use specialized hardware and differ in the surgical approach. Another option is artificial disc replacement, which involves replacing a damaged cervical disc with a synthetic one without fusing the vertebrae. These procedures aim to restore functionality while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissue.
Lumbar Fusion Surgery
Lumbar fusion aims to stabilize the vertebral segment with a degenerated disc by preventing motion. The surgery involves making incisions in the back and/or abdomen, which requires moving muscles and ligaments. During the procedure, hardware like pedicle screws, along with an interbody cage, spacers, or bone grafts, are inserted to immobilize the affected segment while it heals..
Artificial Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery
Artificial Cervical Disc Replacement (ACDR), also known as Total Disc Replacement (TDR), is a more advanced and complex procedure compared to fusion. The surgery begins with an incision in the lower abdominal wall to access the affected vertebral segment. The surgeon then carefully dissects through the abdominal muscles and works around the abdominal contents without disturbing them. The degenerated disc is removed, the height of the collapsed disc is restored, and the surrounding ligaments are released to remobilize the segment. Finally, an artificial disc is inserted in the correct position to replace the damaged disc. ACDR has been available in some countries for years, with a specific technology being introduced in the U.S. in 2004=
Cervical & Lumbar Surgery
The cervical spine is located in the neck, while the lumbar spine is in the lower back, and many back problems originate in these two regions. Cervical spine surgery is aimed at addressing issues in the neck and upper back, while lumbar spine surgery targets problems in the lower back. These surgeries often involve the removal or insertion of bone or soft tissue to improve motion in the affected areas. There are various types of cervical and lumbar spine surgeries, so it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor. Each surgery is tailored to the specific problem and your individual needs.
PRP and Cell Therapy
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and marrow cells are natural substances in the body that help reduce inflammation and promote healing. PRP is derived from a person’s blood through a simple blood draw, while marrow cells are typically harvested from the iliac crest, the large pelvic bone you can feel on the side of your waist. Both PRP and bone marrow contain growth factors and cells that may help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and aid in the repair of damaged tissues. Some marrow cells, such as mesenchymal cells, are also included in the harvest and may play a role in the healing process. These cells have shown potential in promoting healing and enhancing recovery.
Microdecompression Treatments
Microdecompression, also known as microdiscectomy, is a minimally invasive procedure where a small portion of herniated disc material or bone is removed to relieve nerve compression in the spinal column. Unlike traditional surgery, which involves removing an entire disc and using implants or bone grafts, this technique requires only a small incision and offers a quicker recovery time. It is particularly effective for treating painful sciatica and other forms of radiculopathy, especially in the lumbar spine. Microdecompression is preferred due to its minimal recovery time and the fact that the procedure is often completed quickly, typically on an outpatient basis..
Artificial Disc Replacement
Artificial disc replacement is a modern surgical procedure designed to treat lower back pain. Similar to joint or knee replacements, it involves inserting a mechanical device to replace a damaged intervertebral disc in the spine. The new artificial disc is intended to restore motion by replacing a degenerated or worn-out disc. Unlike other surgical options, artificial disc replacement aims to address motion issues, making it an increasingly popular alternative to procedures like lumbar fusion.
Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery
Traditional open surgeries often involve large incisions that, while effective, can damage surrounding soft tissue—an issue especially concerning for spinal procedures. To address this, minimally invasive spinal surgery was developed. This approach uses several small incisions to target specific areas, allowing many common and minor spinal conditions to be treated with less disruption to surrounding tissues.
Spinal Cord Stimulators
A spinal cord stimulator is a device that helps manage chronic pain. It consists of thin electrodes placed between the spinal cord and vertebrae, along with a small battery pack (generator) implanted under the skin, typically near the buttocks or abdomen. Patients can control the device with a remote control, sending electrical impulses to the spinal cord to relieve pain. While the exact mechanisms are still not fully understood, spinal cord stimulation is thought to alter how the brain perceives pain and may directly target muscle groups from the spine.
Traditional stimulators replace pain with a tingling sensation, known as paresthesia, though newer models offer “sub-perception” stimulation, which cannot be felt. Highly specialized physicians usually place the device under X-ray or ultrasound guidance.
Spinal cord stimulation is primarily used when other pain treatments, including surgery, have failed. It can treat chronic pain from conditions such as back pain, failed back surgery syndrome, post-surgical pain, nerve-related pain (like diabetic neuropathy), complex regional pain syndrome, and more. It can improve quality of life, reduce the need for pain medication, and is often combined with other pain management treatments like physical therapy and medications.
Candidates for spinal cord stimulators are typically those who have not found relief from other treatments and have no psychiatric conditions that could hinder the procedure’s effectiveness. Doctors will conduct imaging tests and psychological screenings to determine if spinal cord stimulation is appropriate.
Foot and Ankle conditions and Treatments:
- Foot Arthritis
- Foot Tendonitis
- Achilles Rupture
- Posterior Tibial
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Ankle Arthritis
- Ankle Fracture
- Ankle Sprain
- Arch Pain
Treatments:
Heel Pain
Heel pain is a common issue, typically felt under the heel or just behind it, where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel bone. Sometimes, it can also affect the side of the heel. Pain under the heel is often caused by plantar fasciitis, the most common form of heel pain, while pain behind the heel is usually due to Achilles tendinitis. The pain can also occur on the inner or outer sides of the heel and foot. In most cases, heel pain isn’t caused by an injury, and while it may start mild, it can become severe and occasionally disabling. Though it often resolves without treatment, in some cases, it can persist and become
Heel Pain Treatment Options
Conservative Treatment:
The treatment plan depends on the underlying cause of the heel pain, which a foot and ankle specialist can determine. Treatment options may include:
•Stretching
•Padding and strapping
•Custom orthotics
•Supportive shoes
•Braces and walking boots
•Topical creams
•Injections
•Physical therapy
•Medications
Surgical Treatment:
If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be recommended. The type of surgery depends on the specific diagnosis. It’s important to consult a foot and ankle specialist for a thorough assessment of your condition.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, caused by inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. It often leads to stabbing pain with the first steps in the morning, which eases as you move but may return after standing for long periods. Runners, overweight individuals, and those wearing unsupportive shoes are at higher risk.
Conservative Treatment (90% of cases):
•Orthotics
•Heel cups and padding
•Night splints and walking boots
•Supportive footwear
•Icing and NSAIDs
•Cortisone injections
•Physical therapy and stretching
•Activity reduction
Surgical Treatment:
•Minimally invasive surgery (endoscopic release or small incision)
•Percutaneous coblation
•Open fasciotomy
•Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)
•PRP Growth Factor Therapy
Ankle Arthroscopy Surgery
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small lens to inspect and treat the ankle joint. It offers several advantages over traditional open joint surgery, including smaller incisions, less scarring, and reduced soft tissue damage. The magnification provided by the arthroscope allows for a more precise inspection of the joint, while the joint is continuously bathed in physiological fluids, promoting a healthier environment during surgery.
Indications for Ankle Arthroscopy:
Ankle arthroscopy is used to treat conditions such as chronic ankle sprains, ligament scarring, cartilage damage, loose bone fragments, arthritis, impingement, tendonitis, old fractures, and ankle stiffness. It is also used for diagnostic purposes. The procedure requires two small incisions, through which the arthroscope and instruments are introduced to remove loose fragments or stimulate cartilage growth if necessary.
Ankle arthroscopy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, lasting 30-45 minutes under general anesthesia and local anesthesia for the ankle. Afterward, the ankle is placed in a removable boot or splint, and most patients can walk immediately, though non-weight-bearing is recommended for 2-3 weeks if bone drilling was done. The minimally invasive nature of the surgery means it is generally painless when performed by an experienced surgeon. Physical therapy is often prescribed, and patients typically return to regular shoes within 2-3 weeks and resume sports within 4-6 weeks.
Ankle Fracture – Surgery Fixation
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small lens to inspect and treat the ankle joint. It offers several advantages over traditional open joint surgery, including smaller incisions, less scarring, and reduced soft tissue damage. The magnification provided by the arthroscope allows for a more precise inspection of the joint, while the joint is continuously bathed in physiological fluids, promoting a healthier environment during surgery.
Indications for Ankle Arthroscopy:
The foot is made up of 26 bones that support our weight and enable us to walk and run. These small bones are susceptible to fractures from activities or injuries, and foot fractures are more complex than other fractures due to the small size of the bones. X-rays or other imaging tests are typically used to diagnose foot fractures, and a foot and ankle surgeon will recommend the best treatment based on factors like fracture type, location, stability, and the patient’s overall health.
Foot fracture surgery is usually an outpatient procedure performed under light sedation or general anesthesia. After surgery, the foot is placed in soft dressings or a short leg cast. If surgery is needed, the fracture is realigned and held together with screws or plates while healing, or in severe cases, an external fixator may be used for stabilization. Bone healing typically takes 6-8 weeks. Depending on the fracture, patients may either walk immediately or be advised to avoid weight-bearing post-surgery. Most patients experience pain for just a few days, and the bone typically heals within 6-8 weeks.
Metatarsal Fracture Surgery
The foot contains five metatarsal bones that support our weight and allow us to walk and run. These bones can be fractured due to activities or injuries. Metatarsal fractures are typically diagnosed through X-rays or other imaging, and a foot and ankle surgeon will determine if surgery is necessary and recommend the best treatment plan. Treatment depends on factors like the type, location, and stability of the fracture, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Metatarsal fracture surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, under either light sedation with a local anesthetic block or general anesthesia. After surgery, the foot is placed in soft dressings or a short leg cast. If surgery is required, the fracture is realigned and held in place with screws or plates, and in severe cases, an external fixator may be used to stabilize the bone. Healing typically takes 6-8 weeks.
Depending on the fracture’s type and location, patients may be allowed to walk immediately or need to avoid weight-bearing. Most patients experience minimal pain for 2-5 days after surgery, and bone fractures generally heal within 6-8 weeks.
Advanced Wound Care
We provide the latest and most advanced wound care treatments for our patients, including cutting-edge products like synthetic skin grafts containing living human skin cells to aid in the healing of diabetic foot and leg ulcers. We also offer skin plasty and utilize the patient’s own skin to close wounds, helping to prevent amputations. Additionally, we use advanced healing technologies such as negative pressure wound vacuum devices to accelerate healing and reduce the risk of future amputations.
Minimal Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for the foot and ankle is becoming increasingly popular due to its smaller incisions, which offer faster recovery and less discomfort compared to traditional surgery. During an MIS procedure, the surgeon makes tiny incisions through which specialized instruments are passed to perform the operation. In some cases, a small camera (endoscope or arthroscope) or x-ray may be used to guide the surgeon. If the surgeon cannot achieve an adequate view or perform the surgery effectively, a larger incision may be necessary. MIS is only recommended when the surgeon is confident that the outcome will be as good, or better, than with traditional surgery. Not all procedures are suitable for MIS, but common surgeries that can be performed this way include:
- Bunion surgery
- Bunionette (Tailor Bunion) correction
- Achilles tendon repair
- Plantar fasciitis
- Ankle and foot arthritis
- Cheilectomy (for early hallux rigidus)
- Calcaneal osteotomy
- Gastrocnemius release
- Haglund resections
- Tendon debridements.
Most patients can walk immediately after surgery, as the procedure is minimally invasive and typically painless when performed by an experienced surgeon. Pain usually lasts 1-3 days, with most patients returning to regular shoes within 2 weeks and resuming physical activity or sports in 4 weeks.
Shoulders Procedures:
Anatomical Shoulder Replacement
Anatomical shoulder replacement, or total shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving pain and improving function in the shoulder joint. This surgery involves replacing the damaged shoulder joint with artificial components that replicate the natural movement of a healthy shoulder, restoring mobility and reducing discomfort.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
Reverse total shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure for patients with severe shoulder issues, such as arthritis or rotator cuff tears, that haven’t responded to other treatments. This surgery is called “reverse” because it alters the shoulder’s normal anatomy, enabling the deltoid muscle to compensate for the damaged rotator cuff muscles.
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Rotator cuff damage often prevents individuals from lifting their arm above shoulder height, making traditional shoulder replacement ineffective. In such cases, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is performed, which was developed by orthopedic surgeons in France. This procedure reverses the positions of the ball and socket of the shoulder, with the ball being replaced by a socket and the socket replaced by a ball. As a result, the deltoid muscle takes over the function of the rotator cuff to help raise the arm. This surgery significantly reduces pain caused by osteoarthritis in the shoulder and greatly improves function, though full range of motion may not be achieved, patients experience significant improvement without pain.
Open Biceps Tendon Repair
Biceps tendon ruptures typically occur when lifting heavy objects or when the arm is under stress during elbow flexion. Tenodesis refers to the procedure of reattaching a tendon, and it can be performed for ruptures at the shoulder or elbow. When a rupture happens at the shoulder, the tendon doesn’t need to be reattached for full function, but many patients opt for surgery to restore the appearance of the biceps. However, a rupture at the elbow must be reattached to prevent loss of elbow motion and inability to perform certain arm movements.
Rotator Cuff Arthroplasty
A rotator cuff tear often causes difficulty in raising the arm above shoulder height, along with pain during the night and with lifting, making everyday tasks like personal hygiene challenging. Some patients may have had previous rotator cuff repair surgery that did not succeed.
To evaluate the condition, an X-ray is first taken to check for arthritis, followed by an MRI to assess the rotator cuff’s condition.
Non-surgical treatments include NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, Advil, or Aleve), physical therapy to improve range of motion and strengthen shoulder muscles, and sometimes steroid injections to reduce pain.
If the tear significantly limits motion and daily activities, surgery may be needed. For those with a non-functioning rotator cuff, a reverse total shoulder replacement may be required.
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Latarjet
If patients experience ongoing instability or bone loss due to recurrent shoulder dislocations after a failed shoulder arthroscopy, a Latarjet procedure may be recommended.
SLAP / Labrum Tear
Patients with a labrum injury often experience a popping or clicking sensation in the shoulder, along with pain during activities like throwing, swimming, or overhead movements. Athletes, such as baseball players, may only feel pain when throwing at high intensity. An MRI with a dye injection into the shoulder is typically used to diagnose labrum tears.
Treatment depends on the patient’s activity level, pain, and the severity of the tear seen on the MRI. Initial treatment usually includes NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or Aleve) and physical therapy to strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding shoulder muscles. Throwing athletes may follow a specialized physical therapy program to return to their sport.
If conservative treatments fail and symptoms persist, shoulder arthroscopy with labral repair may be required.
Arthroscopic Capsular Release
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure commonly used to treat sports injuries. It involves inserting a fiber-optic camera into the joint through a small incision to examine the ligaments, cartilage, and soft tissue. A second small incision allows for the use of specialized instruments to remove or repair damaged tissue. When used with synovectomy, shoulder arthroscopy is particularly effective for patients with adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) that hasn’t improved with physical therapy, NSAIDs, or steroid injections. This procedure helps improve range of motion and reduce pain.
Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression
Shoulder arthroscopy with subacromial decompression is a surgical procedure performed on patients with shoulder impingement syndrome. The acromion, a bone that sits above the rotator cuff, can develop spurs that irritate and rub against the rotator cuff. This narrowing of the subacromial space can cause pain and damage to the rotator cuff. As a result, the rotator cuff may become pinched against the underside of the AC joint, leading to tendonitis and significant pain. Chronic shoulder impingement, if left untreated, can eventually result in degenerative rotator cuff tears.
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Release
Shoulder arthroscopy with rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure performed for patients with torn or damaged rotator cuffs. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles that enable arm movement and overhead activities. The two muscles located at the top of the shoulder are most commonly torn. In some patients, the subacromial space beneath the clavicle becomes narrowed, leading to impingement of the rotator cuff during overhead motion. This can cause chronic tendonitis and eventually result in a tear of the rotator cuff muscles. Rotator cuff tears may also occur due to trauma, such as falling on the shoulder or lifting a heavy object. Regardless of the cause, a rotator cuff tear is a significant source of pain and can make it difficult to reach overhead, lift, push, or pull. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is frequently combined with an arthroscopic subacromial decompression and distal clavicle excision to address shoulder impingement alongside the rotator cuff tear.
Shoulder Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
The rotator cuff is a key component of shoulder mobility, responsible for much of the arm’s movement. It consists of four muscles and tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. Together, they stabilize the shoulder joint, enabling a broad range of motion and supporting everyday activities. When rotator cuff injuries occur and conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms such as pain, weakness, or restricted movement, surgery, including arthroscopic repair, may be necessary.
Shoulder arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is an effective and minimally invasive method for treating rotator cuff injuries. By understanding the rotator cuff’s anatomy, recognizing when surgery is needed, and following a structured rehabilitation plan, patients can often experience significant improvements in shoulder function and regain their quality of life.
As with any surgical procedure, working closely with the healthcare team and following postoperative care instructions is essential for the best possible outcome and recovery.
Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability, particularly anterior instability, is often linked to a history of prior dislocations. To diagnose this condition, an X-ray is taken to check for any bony defects, and an MRI is used to assess the shoulder cartilage for damage.
Treatment for shoulder instability depends on the patient’s age and activity level. Initially, conservative treatment involves three to six months of focused physical therapy aimed at strengthening the rotator cuff muscles. If instability persists despite therapy, surgical intervention may be needed to stabilize the
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Arthroscopic Labral Repair
Shoulder arthroscopy with labral repair is a surgical procedure performed on patients with a torn labrum or SLAP tear. The labrum is a cartilage structure that lines the rim of the glenoid (shoulder socket), helping to stabilize the humeral head (ball of the shoulder) within the joint. This injury is common among throwing athletes and can lead to significant pain and discomfort. Patients often report a clicking or popping sensation, along with a feeling of instability, especially during throwing motions. A history of previous dislocations is also frequently seen in individuals with labral injuries.
Shoulder Impingement
Patients with impingement syndrome typically experience gradual pain in the front and side of the shoulder. This pain worsens with overhead reaching, side-reaching, pushing, pulling, or overhead lifting. Some may also experience night pain and difficulty sleeping on the affected side, as well as stiffness and pain radiating down the arm.
Impingement syndrome is often treatable with conservative methods. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve) and rest from activities that trigger pain can help alleviate symptoms. Most patients are also recommended physical therapy that starts with stretching and progresses to strengthening the rotator cuff once the pain subsides.
If physical therapy and NSAIDs do not provide relief, a steroid injection may be considered, following confirmation from an MRI that no rotator cuff tear is present. For those who continue to experience pain, surgical intervention, typically a shoulder arthroscopy with subacromial decompression, may be recommended.
Arthroscopic Distal Clavicle Excision
Shoulder arthroscopy with distal clavicle excision is a surgical procedure performed to treat patients with a painful acromioclavicular (AC) joint. The AC joint is where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the tip of the shoulder blade (scapula). While many people have arthritis in the AC joint without experiencing pain, some may develop discomfort due to this arthritis. To relieve the pain, the bone forming the AC joint is removed through arthroscopy. This procedure is frequently combined with an arthroscopic subacromial decompression to address shoulder impingement.
Biceps Tendon Rupture at Shoulder
When a biceps tendon ruptures, patients typically notice a visible deformity in the biceps, often presenting as a bulge in the arm. This injury is frequently accompanied by a loud snapping sound, followed by bruising around the forearm or elbow. Patients commonly experience difficulty with actions like turning doorknobs, lifting objects, or performing twisting motions with the wrist due to weakness or pain.
To confirm the diagnosis of a ruptured tendon, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is typically ordered. While biceps tendon ruptures at the shoulder usually do not require surgery, some individuals choose to have the tendon repaired for cosmetic reasons. However, if the rupture occurs at the elbow attachment, surgical repair and reattachment are necessary. Without surgical intervention, patients may lose around 10% of elbow flexion and experience reduced forearm strength, making tasks like using a screwdriver more challenging.
Adhesive Capsulitis
Patients with adhesive capsulitis often experience shoulder stiffness, pain, limited ability to reach overhead, and a significant reduction in range of motion.
Treatment for adhesive capsulitis depends on the severity of pain and loss of motion. Common first-line treatments include NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, etc.), pain medications, the use of a heating pad, and physical therapy. Additionally, a cortisone injection may be administered to reduce inflammation and help improve shoulder movement. Patients typically require two to six months of physical therapy to regain full motion. If pain and stiffness persist, arthroscopic surgery may be needed as a next step.
Knee Treatments:
Knee ACL Reconstruction
ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure performed to repair or replace a torn or damaged ACL, one of the primary ligaments in the knee joint. This surgery is crucial for restoring knee stability and function, while also helping to prevent further damage to the knee.
Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty
Revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA), or knee replacement surgery, is a procedure performed to address complications or failures from a previous knee replacement.
Understanding when and why revision TKA is necessary is important. Complications from the initial knee replacement, such as implant wear, infection, or instability, can cause pain, decreased function, and a lower quality of life. Revision TKA is a specialized procedure aimed at resolving these issues and restoring optimal joint function.
Knee Implant Revision
The main goal is often to replace worn or malfunctioning components of the knee implant. Advances in implant design and materials may offer enhanced durability and functionality.
Treatment for Infection
In cases of infection, thorough cleaning (debridement) and antibiotic treatment are essential. Staged revision surgeries may be required to effectively treat the infection.
Correction of Knee Replacement Alignment Issues
Correcting misalignment or instability through procedures like bone grafting is crucial to ensure proper joint mechanics.
Patellafemoral Chondromalacia
Patients with patellofemoral chondromalacia often report pain when walking up or down stairs, difficulty with squatting or kneeling, and discomfort with prolonged sitting. Some may also experience a grinding sensation behind the kneecap.
Treatment for this condition typically starts with activity modifications to avoid pain, gradually progressing to a level where the patient is pain-free. A physical therapy program is recommended to strengthen the quadriceps, stretch the hamstrings, and improve hip muscle strength. Additionally, some patients find relief from pain with a short course of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, etc.).
Patella Dislocation / Subluxation
Patients who experience a patellar dislocation typically report severe pain, an audible pop, and occasional deformity of the kneecap. The patella often returns to its normal position on its own. Patients may feel instability in the kneecap during physical activities that involve squatting or lateral movements. Additionally, they commonly experience anterior knee pain and discomfort when walking down stairs.
The initial treatment for a patellar dislocation involves splinting the knee in a fully extended position. Ice application and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, etc.) are recommended during the first 24–72 hours of the acute episode. Once the initial pain subsides, physical therapy is initiated to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles that stabilize the kneecap, particularly the quadriceps.
For patients who experience recurrent dislocations despite physical therapy, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Meniscus Injury
The meniscus is a cartilage cushion in the knee that serves as a shock absorber. There are two menisci: the medial meniscus, located on the inner side of the knee, and the lateral meniscus, located on the outer side. Meniscus injuries are commonly caused by a twisting motion of the knee.
Patients with a torn meniscus often experience symptoms such as clicking or catching in the knee, with pain worsening during squatting or twisting movements. Common mechanical symptoms include knee instability, locking, buckling, and swelling.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is the preferred diagnostic tool for assessing meniscus injuries. Although meniscus tears are common, conservative treatment is often effective. This may involve NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, etc.) and a physical therapy program focused on strengthening the thigh and hip muscles that support the knee joint. If pain and mechanical symptoms persist, arthroscopic surgery may be required to repair the meniscus or remove the damaged tissue.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Sprain
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is a key stabilizing ligament located on the inner side of the knee. An MCL injury typically occurs from a blow to the outer side of the knee, which forces the knee to bend inward. This type of injury is common in contact sports like football and soccer.
Patients with an MCL injury typically report a history of lateral impact to the knee, pain during twisting and rotation, and discomfort on the inner side of the knee. They may also experience a sensation of instability, along with locking or popping in the knee.
Treatment for MCL tears and sprains is generally non-surgical, with most cases resolving within four to six weeks. Initial care includes rest, ice, compression with a brace, and elevation to reduce swelling. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, etc.) are commonly used to manage pain and inflammation. Physical therapy is also crucial for maintaining knee range of motion and strengthening the surrounding muscles.
Medial Patellafemoral Ligament Reconstruction
Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is performed for patients with recurrent patella dislocations or subluxations. In this procedure, an allograft (cadaver tissue) is used to stabilize the kneecap, ensuring it stays within the groove of the knee and preventing future dislocations.
Baker’s Cyst
A Baker’s cyst, or popliteal cyst, is a condition in which the bursa sac at the back of the knee becomes inflamed and fills with fluid.
Patients commonly report swelling or a fluid-filled sensation behind the knee, often accompanied by stiffness or difficulty bending the knee.
Treatment for a Baker’s cyst starts with ruling out other potential causes, such as a meniscus tear, calf muscle strain, or knee osteoarthritis. Fluid aspiration may be performed to relieve symptoms. If aspiration is not needed, patients are typically treated with a short course of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, etc.) and physical therapy if necessary.
Arthroscopic Meniscectomy
Knee arthroscopy with a partial meniscectomy is performed for patients with a meniscus tear that cannot be repaired. These patients typically have already undergone physical therapy and conservative treatments without relief from symptoms. Removing the entire meniscus is rarely done, as it increases the risk of early cartilage wear. Instead, a partial meniscectomy is performed, where only the damaged or torn portion of the meniscus is removed.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a deep ligament in the knee that helps stabilize the joint. ACL tears typically occur due to a twisting or hyperextension injury of the knee. While partial ACL tears can happen, complete tears are more common. Because of the way ACL tears occur, meniscus tears are often seen alongside them.
At the time of injury, patients often hear an audible pop. After the initial injury, they typically experience knee swelling, a sense of instability and buckling during activities, along with pain when squatting or jumping.
- Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair
- Arthroscopic Bursectomy
- Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction
Other Orthopedic and Pain Management Services:
Radio-Frequency Ablation
Epidural Blocks (Cervical/Thoracic/Lumbar)
Facet Blocks (Cervical/Thoracic/Lumbar)
Medial and Lateral Branch Blocks
Orthopedic Spinal Surgeries
Spinal Diskectomy / Spinal Fusions
Centers Sacroiliac joint injections
Foot and Ankle Surgeries
Intra-Articular Joint Injections
Platelet Rich Plasma/Umbilical Cord
Stem Cells (FDA Regulated)
Joint Commission Accredited Surgery Center
